Geoff, General Manager of MCDM Productions, spoke with us about the company鈥檚 contributions to the world of TTRPGs (tabletop roleplaying games), as well as MCDM鈥檚 exciting plans for the future.

Humble Beginnings and Rapid Growth

The story of MCDM Productions begins with Matt Colville, a passionate author and Game Master who sought to share his knowledge and love for the tabletop hobby. His YouTube channel, dedicated to teaching others how to run D&D, gained a dedicated following. Recognizing the demand for high-quality D&D resources, Colville launched a crowdfunding campaign to turn his homebrew book into a polished product. The Strongholds & Streaming campaign was a resounding success, exceeding its funding goal by a significant margin. This success fueled Colville’s decision to leave his day job and focus on MCDM Productions full-time.

Enhancing the Dungeons & Dragons Experience

MCDM Productions has made a significant impact on the world of Dungeons & Dragons by offering a wide range of supplemental materials designed to enhance the gaming experience. Their prestige hardcover books, such as Kingdoms & Warfare and Strongholds & Followers, introduce new elements like large-scale warfare and political intrigue to the game. The company also offers premade adventures in Where Evil Lives, that provide ready-to-play content for Dungeon Masters.

Draw Steel: A New Frontier of Tabletop Gaming

MCDM Productions’ latest venture is Draw Steel, an entirely new roleplaying game that promises a fresh and exciting experience for players. Drawing from the wargaming roots of the RPG hobby, combat in Draw Steel takes place on a grid with robust rules for movement, displacement, damage, and progression.

If you zoom out a bit, Draw Steel and Dungeons & Dragons appear similar; both games allow groups of players to come together and create an original story through narrative-based gameplay. However, the rulesets and playstyles between the two games are vastly different. 鈥淚t鈥檚 an entirely new game,鈥� said Geoff. 鈥淚t doesn鈥檛 use the same dice, the same rules 鈥� it鈥檚 an original creation. It鈥檚 a very tactile game, you really want to have a grid in front of you.鈥�

MCDM hopes the tabletop gaming community uses their books to create their own original stories in their own fantasy worlds. 鈥淸The books are] sort of the building blocks that you can use to create your own worlds and adventures. We have an that allows people to use our full text in their own original creations. This is kind of the bedrock we hope the community uses to build stuff on top of.鈥�

A Massive Undertaking for MCDM Productions

Draw Steel is the culmination of a herculean effort from the employees at MCDM Productions. 鈥淲e have a team of 11 people in-house and dozens of contract artists, designers, testers all working together to make these books鈥� explained Geoff. 鈥淲e don鈥檛 cut any corners. Art, design, layout, editing 鈥� It鈥檚 a huge investment in time and effort. We鈥檝e been working on Draw Steel for almost two years, and by the time we deliver it will be two and a half years.鈥�

Presentation is an important compliment of game design and a priority for MCDM. 鈥淲e invest a lot in our illustrations and layout. Really high-quality illustrations are an important part of fantasy,鈥� said Geoff. 鈥淥ur last book, Flee, Mortals!, had almost 400 illustrations in it, so making sure all the work is delivered to customers inside a high quality book is very important to us.鈥�

A Shared Commitment to Quality and Innovation

As MCDM Productions continues to grow and evolve, it is clear that the company is committed to pushing the boundaries of tabletop gaming. With its innovative products, dedicated team and passion for game development, MCDM Productions hope to offer great products to their customers for years to come.

One of the many things that makes 澳门六合彩论坛鈥檚 partnership with MCDM Productions so successful is our shared commitment to quality products. MCDM won鈥檛 send a product to their customers if it doesn鈥檛 meet their high standards, and neither will we. If you鈥檙e a publisher of game books or other art books, contact 澳门六合彩论坛 today to learn more about what we have to offer.

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Utilize Customer Support Staff

One of the most valuable resources available during the transition is the customer support team at your new printer. These professionals are trained to assist you with any questions, concerns, or issues that may arise. Your Sales Representative and Customer Service Representative are there to help ease you through the transition, so be sure to take full advantage of their expertise. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for guidance on everything from file preparation to shipping logistics. 

Your customer support staff can often even give you advice on the best printing options to fit your budget while still creating a quality final product, including paper and binding options, as well as coatings and other applications.

Carefully Review Proofs

Proofreading is a critical step in any printing project, but it becomes even more essential when working with a new printer. A different printer may be working with different equipment, resulting in minor visual differences from what your customers are used to receiving. Take the time to carefully review all proofs and ensure that they accurately reflect your desired outcome. Pay close attention to details such as color accuracy and and overall layout. Establishing a robust quality control process will help minimize errors and ensure that your final product meets your high standards.

Understand Your New Printer’s Capabilities

Each printer has its own unique capabilities and limitations. Before embarking on a new project, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with your printer’s strengths and weaknesses. This will help you make informed decisions about the types of projects to pursue and the specific requirements that need to be met. Again, don鈥檛 be afraid to lean on your new customer support representatives to fully understand their printing capabilities. Your new printer may offer new capabilities to enhance your project, such as coatings, binding types or even paper options.

Establish a Relationship With Your New Printer

Your point of contact at the printer will play a crucial role in the success of your partnership. Take the time to get to know them and build a rapport. Open and honest communication is key to a successful working relationship. Discuss your project goals, timelines and any specific concerns you may have. As your relationship with your new printing partner grows, they鈥檒l likely learn to anticipate your needs and may even come to you with new ways to enhance your product or save on printing costs. By establishing a strong connection with your point of contact, you’ll create a foundation for collaboration and problem-solving.

Ensure a Painless Transition with 澳门六合彩论坛

At 澳门六合彩论坛, we understand that switching to a new printing partner can be a daunting task. That’s why we’re committed to making the transition as seamless as possible. For example, we offer a series of quick start guides to help you get your files ready for a successful print. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service and support throughout the entire process. From initial consultation to final delivery, we’ll work closely with you to ensure that your printing needs are met with the highest level of quality and efficiency.聽聽By following these tips and leveraging the expertise of your new printing partner, you can successfully navigate the challenges of a new partnership and achieve outstanding results. With careful planning, open communication, and a commitment to quality, you’ll be well on your way to building a long-lasting and mutually beneficial relationship. Contact 澳门六合彩论坛 today to learn more about how we make the switching process painless.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google鈥檚 PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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This unique combination of words and pictures also takes communication to the very highest level. For example, it鈥檚 one thing to introduce a powerful new comic book character through dialogue. However, you can make that dialogue much more impactful by demonstrating their immense power through stunning visuals and vibrant colors in an intense battle.

Comic book illustrators do an amazing job of mixing old art forms into modern design. Look through comic books and graphic novels and you鈥檒l see influences of realism, renaissance, surrealism and minimalism as well as current graphic design trends. The writers and artists are experts at blending the words and visuals together for a compelling reading experience.

The First Challenge: Taking RGB to CMYK

But unless you understand the nuances of converting RGB design files to CMYK print files, the results can be disappointing. While it鈥檚 not rocket science, the process definitely goes beyond pushing the 鈥渃onvert file鈥� command to achieve the best results.

Just for the sake of clarity, let鈥檚 do a short review of RGB (red, green, blue) and CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) color models. RGB is how your computer (or any digital device) displays color. It is additive in nature, meaning that it displays color by adding light. When you mix all three colors together when working in RGB, you get white.

The color gamut of neither model can display all the colors visible to the naked eye. But the RGB gamut is larger than the CMYK gamut. RGB can display 16.7 million possible color values vs. about 16 thousand possibilities in CMYK.

How CMYK Differs From RGB 

CMYK is the color model used in printing. It involves a subtractive process that displays color by absorbing light. In other words, the ink displays the color. All four CMYK colors mixed together at different percentages can produce a rich black.

Notably, CMYK is unable to display neon colors. That鈥檚 because neon colors have fluorescence, enabling them to reflect more visible light than other colors. CMYK colors can only be as bright as the underlying substrate, which is usually paper.

So, you can see the obvious challenges resulting from the size differences of the two color gamuts and the way that they each display color. Designers who work in RGB and then make a file conversion to CMYK will likely find some of their colors dull and muted.

How to Get the Most Out of CMYK

One recommendation is to create your files in CMYK. This allows you to see more accurately what you鈥檙e going to get in print. It also allows you to tweak the color before sending it for processing. Thus, you maintain more control over the final appearance of your comic book or graphic novel artwork.

Some other file conversion tips include:

• Convert RGB to the correct colorspace, either grayscale, CMYK or spot color.
• For spot color being printed in CMYK, convert to CMYK in your native file before releasing or converting to a PDF file.  And remember that no Pantone color converts to CMYK with absolute accuracy. Be sure to ask for a swatch.

If you want to ensure the colors will reproduce correctly, request a color-accurate proof of a few pages or the entire book from your printer.

Get Familiar With ICC Profiles

There鈥檚 no chance of reproducing accurate color if your scanner, computer or monitor are inaccurate. This is where (ICC) profiles come into play. ICC profiles contain a set of data that characterizes a color input or output device. In short, each device in your design workflow that inputs or displays color can be assigned a profile. These profiles define the color gamut that the devices are capable of displaying.

The first step is to determine the color gamut of each of your devices. If they are different (say your computer is RGB and your monitor is DCI-P3) then you need to import the differing  ICC profile into your computer operating system to ensure accurate color display.

Likewise, graphics and digital images have their individual profiles. They will only display accurately if you match the ICC image profile with the monitor and import the corresponding ICC profile into your computer鈥檚 operating system. 

If all this sounds a bit daunting, there are software programs available that simplify the process.

Seek a Printer With G7^庐 Certification

The challenges don鈥檛 stop once you optimize a file for accurate color reproduction. Different printing methods, such as digital, inkjet and offset, all reproduce color differently. developed the G7^庐 specification that 鈥渄efines a universal appearance for black-and-white imagery (or a printed grayscale), as well as how to calibrate and control any printing or proofing system to achieve that appearance.鈥�

Controlling grays makes color images also look as pleasing to the eye as possible without ICC profiles. But for even greater accuracy on color-critical work, G7 can be combined with ICC color management.

G7 also brings some RGB benefits to CMYK. RGB files from one digital display usually look reasonably accurate on another, say your computer to your smartphone. The reason is that all video display devices produce the color gray from equal RGB values as well as typically sharing a common 2.2 gamma. Thus, black-and-white images appear very similar wherever displayed.

G7 provides a universal standard for printing gray in CMYK. Previously, lightness and contrast could vary significantly across different printing technologies and even from press to press within the same technology.

G7 now provides a simple calibration method for any printing system to match its definition of gray balance and neutral tonality. In short, if you printed the first run of your graphic novel on a digital press and later printed a longer run offset, G7 would enable each run to color match closely to one another. G7 is all about getting the same predictable color output every time, whether your comic book or graphic novel is running on a digital press or an offset press 鈥� regardless of the substrate.

Pay Attention to Press and Paper

The printing technology and the paper you choose will also impact your file preparation and color reproduction. Getting the best results requires using the correct line screen for both the print technology and the paper.

The glossier the paper, the finer linescreen you can use. Less gloss (or no coating at all), means more absorption of the ink and a coarser screen. Check with your print provider, but these are generally acceptable line screen ranges (dots per inch or DPI) for the main press technologies:

• 100-133 DPI 鈥� coldest/non-heatset web
• 133-175 DPI 鈥� heatset web
• 120-200  DPI 鈥� sheetfed
• Line screens don鈥檛 apply to digital printing

In preparing files, the best approach is to use a DPI that is 1.5-2 times the actual linescreen used when printing. Set your raster and transparency settings to high resolution and be certain to arrange type in the uppermost level. A good default standard is 300-350 dpi.

Address Ink Issues

One other thing you want to pay attention to is ink density, which is the thickness of the ink layer on the paper. The combination of all the process colors (cyan, yellow, magenta and black) at full strength would be 400% ink coverage, which is not necessary to achieve a rich black color. Keep in mind that some print technologies can reproduce more density than others. Different papers can also handle more density than others.

Again, you should always check with your print provider, but here are general ink density guidelines: sheetfed (300%, 270% if UV coating); coldest/non-heatset web (260% for offset paper, 245% for groundwood paper, 235% for newsprint); heatset web (310%) and digital (320%).

And as a final tip, be aware of the effect of varnish on ink. High gloss varnish deepens hues, creating a rich, even surface that reflects light. Meanwhile, dull varnish softens ink, moderating its intensity for a subtler effect.

Call the Experts at 澳门六合彩论坛

Our clients include some of the industry鈥檚 most recognizable names, from Dungeons & Dragons and Minecraft to art books for Larry Elmore, the noted fantasy illustrator whose work appears in Dungeons & Dragons, Dragonlance and his own comic strip series, SnarfQuest.

澳门六合彩论坛 constantly invests in the equipment, services and solutions to meet the demands of this dynamic publishing segment. Our ability to handle quick turnarounds with ease is supported by advanced premedia capabilities (including G7 certification), multiple print platforms, a robust bindery and deep mailing and distribution know-how.

And we can help you reach your audience where they are. While print forms the core of your distribution strategy, you may also incorporate digital strategies to expand your reach, enhance engagement or address readers鈥� preferences. We can provide you with digital publishing apps, website solutions and other content delivery options to maximize your reader connections.

Getting in touch is simple. Just submit your information and a friendly 澳门六合彩论坛 associate will be in touch within 24 hours.

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Following Strongholds & Followers, the company launched another successful Kickstarter campaign, this time developing a second companion book titled Kingdoms & Warfare. This time, MCDM Productions wanted to partner with a printing company that reflected their own values; ethical sourcing, employee-focused and above all, owned and operated in the United States. That鈥檚 why in 2020, MCDM Productions and 澳门六合彩论坛 entered into a partnership that has produced tens of thousands of high-quality books, with more on the horizon.

What MCDM Productions Was Looking For

Geoff, General Manager at MCDM Productions, emphasized this point, saying, 鈥淲e鈥檙e an American company, we prefer to print in the country. It鈥檚 really important to us for a whole variety of reasons.鈥� For MCDM, printing domestically is about more than just location鈥攊t’s a reflection of their dedication to quality and responsible business practices. 鈥淲e take employee compensation and benefits, and ethics behind paper source and ink seriously,鈥� Geoff explained. 鈥淪ome of that you don鈥檛 get when you go other places. Getting the lowest price is not our priority 鈥� it鈥檚 about how everything is sourced and put together, and the overall customer service experience.鈥�

MCDM鈥檚 game books are designed to be used as reference materials, meaning quality and durability are paramount. 鈥淭hese are books that people are going to use as a reference manual for many years,鈥� Geoff noted. 鈥淭hey鈥檙e kind of like yearbooks. We鈥檙e looking for something that鈥檚 going to last a very long time 鈥� that鈥檚 the expectation of our customers.鈥� With a devoted fanbase consisting of dedicated tabletop gamers, MCDM needs a printer that can deliver high-quality books that withstand heavy use.

澳门六合彩论坛鈥檚 Commitment to Timeliness

Another critical aspect of their partnership with 澳门六合彩论坛 is the ability to handle reorders efficiently. In 2020, MCDM faced the challenge of placing large orders due to supply chain disruptions. 鈥淏eing able to be responsive to reorders is crucial,鈥� Geoff shared. 鈥淪torage will eat you alive these days. Instead of ordering books all at once and having to store them, ordering a few thousand books a few times a year works better for us.鈥� 澳门六合彩论坛鈥檚 flexibility in managing production and their ability to ship quickly to MCDM鈥檚 warehouses in Florida and Los Angeles has been a major advantage.

鈥淥ur experience working with 澳门六合彩论坛 has been positive,鈥� Geoff said. 鈥淥ur customers have been very happy, and the process has been relatively painless 鈥� payment terms, quick turnaround.鈥� MCDM Productions values how quickly 澳门六合彩论坛 can deliver, compared to overseas printers where production and shipping times can be extensive. 鈥淒owntime or being out of stock is really rough,鈥� Geoff said. 鈥淲hen you print in Europe, it can take weeks or months. When we print with you guys, it gets there in days.鈥�

What Makes Our Partnership Successful

The combination of high-quality printing, ethical business practices and timely service has made 澳门六合彩论坛 a trusted partner for MCDM Productions. Geoff concluded with a piece of advice for others in his industry: 鈥淪pend the extra dollar for something somebody might have on their shelf for twenty years. These aren鈥檛 newspapers that people just throw away 鈥� they鈥檙e reference manuals that people might use for decades.鈥� For MCDM Productions, working with 澳门六合彩论坛 means ensuring their products are made to last and reflect the same values their company stands for.

Learn More About What 澳门六合彩论坛 Can Do for You

Our four state-of-the-art printing facilities located strategically across the Midwest allow us to offer competitive pricing and turnaround times to publishers across the United States and Canada. If you鈥檙e a publisher looking to print durable, high-quality game books, get in touch with us today.

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For gamers, printed books can serve as portals to explore deeper into their favorite game universes, providing rich backstories, character development and untold lore that can enhance the overall gaming experience. Whether your choice of gaming involves a screen or simply friends sitting around a table, print media can help you dive in and fully immerse yourself in a different world.

Novels: Delving Deeper into Game Narratives

One of the most popular ways to expand a game universe is through novels. These can be written as prequels, sequels or standalone stories that explore the world and characters in greater detail. For example, the Assassin’s Creed series has a vast lore that is expanded upon in novels, providing additional context for the games. Similarly, the Witcher series, written by Andrzej Sapkowski, has been adapted into a successful video game franchise, but the novels offer a much richer and more complex exploration of Geralt of Rivia’s world. Finally, the Star Wars universe, originally conceptualized in George Lucas鈥� film franchise, has enjoyed the addition of hundreds of novels and comic books that expand upon the stories and settings introduced in the movies and games.

Game Companions: Essential Guides to the Gaming World

For those who want to immerse themselves fully in a video game world, game companions are invaluable resources. These books often contain detailed information about the game’s lore, characters, weapons and gameplay mechanics. They can be used as reference guides during gameplay or simply as enjoyable reads for fans. For instance, the Elder Scrolls series has a wealth of game companions that delve into the history, culture, and mythology of Tamriel.

Game companions are a necessary part of tabletop roleplaying games (TTRPGs). These books contain information about character classes, game mechanics and monsters required to run a successful campaign. Dungeons & Dragons, for example, has countless game companion books, including the Player Handbook, the Dungeon Master鈥檚 Guide, Monster Manuals and more, giving players and dungeon masters the tools they need to create their very own fantasy world.

Encyclopedias: Comprehensive References for Game Universes

Encyclopedias are another essential tool for exploring game universes. These books provide a comprehensive overview of the world, its history and its inhabitants. They can be a great resource for players who want to learn more about the game’s lore and backstory. The Final Fantasy series is known for its extensive encyclopedias that delve into the rich history of the series’ various worlds. The Legend of Zelda games also have an accompanying encyclopedia, educating readers on the various incarnations of Link, Zelda and Ganon.

Art Books: Celebrating the Visual Beauty of Games

For those who appreciate the visual aesthetics of games, art books are a must-have. These books showcase the stunning artwork that brings game worlds to life. They can be a great way to admire the talent of game artists and gain a deeper appreciation for the visual design of the games. The Horizon Zero Dawn series has beautiful art books that showcase the stunning landscapes and creatures of its post-apocalyptic world.

TTRPGs also gain an extra level of immersion through art books. For example, The Complete Elmore: Vol. III, a collection of fantasy art by renowned artist Larry Elmore, transports its reader to a world of dragons and magic. Fantasy art books can help inspire tabletop gamers to dream up new characters and settings for their own campaigns.

Expanding Your Game Universe with 澳门六合彩论坛

If you’re a game developer or publisher looking to expand your game universe with printed books, 澳门六合彩论坛 can help. With our expertise in book printing, we can provide you with high-quality, affordable printing solutions that will bring your vision to life. From novels and game companions to encyclopedias and art books, we have the capabilities to produce a wide range of printed materials that will create new and exciting ways for your audience to interact with your games.

Contact Us Today to learn more about how 澳门六合彩论坛 can help you expand your game universe with printed books, please contact us today. Our team of experts can provide you with a free quote and answer any questions you may have.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google鈥檚 PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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According to the Mordor Intelligence study, North America is the largest geographic market for comic books while Asia Pacific is the fastest growing. Mordor Intelligence considers the market to be moderately consolidated with media companies such as Marvel Entertainment, Dark House Media, Image Comics, DC Entertainment and Archie Comics being the major players. But there鈥檚 plenty of room for smaller publishers and upstart self-publishers as well.

Major comic book genres include fantasy, romance, history and science. Captivating stories and intriguing illustrations help drive the global popularity of comics and their graphic novel subset.

So, comic books and graphic novels represent a growing yet competitive market. And being so visually driven, publishers need to ensure that their print versions, which form the core of even the largest comic book media companies, live up to readers鈥� expectations.

The Role of Paper in Comic Book Printing

Creating great print in any form begins with good paper choices. That鈥檚 why we鈥檙e offering our latest blog post, 鈥淓ssential Guide for Choosing Comic and Graphic Novel Paper.鈥� We want your words and graphics to pop off the paper and engage your fans.

We also know that selecting paper may seem routine. But despite significant industry consolidation, there are still many choices. And getting your stock selection right is one of the most important decisions in creating outstanding comic books and graphic novels.

Traditional Comic Books

The standard size for a comic book is 6.625 in x 10.25 in, with four to six story panels on each page, and covers are normally 6.75 in x 10.5 in to allow for bleed, though comic book sizes are highly dependent on what fits on the racks at comic stores. Though page counts can vary, 24-32 pages remain the norm. That鈥檚 mainly dictated by printing equipment that most economically produces eight- and 16-page forms.

For many years, inexpensive newsprint was the standard comic book paper. That changed in the early 1990s when Marvel Entertainment began using higher-quality, coated paper. They offered both basic and deluxe versions for a period of time, but the higher-quality, gloss editions soon eclipsed the basic versions, which then began to fade nationwide.

Today, most interior pages of major-publisher comic books are either 55 lb. gloss text or 70 lb. gloss text. Covers are typically 80 lb. gloss text. Varnish, UV gloss or aqueous coating are common for additional pop and durability.

Ultimately, you determine the look and feel of your comic book, which should reflect your audience and publishing objectives. For example, if you want to capture a vintage look, then your choice might be an inexpensive, lightweight uncoated stock with a heavier matte or satin-finish cover. And you might combine that by specifying the vintage size of 7.75 in x 10.5 in. These choices would provide a way-back look while offering more longevity along with a more substantial feel.

Graphic Novels

The graphic novel format emerged in the 1960s and 1970s but didn鈥檛 become mainstream until the late 1980s. Author, columnist and bookseller Richard Kyle coined the terms 鈥済raphic story鈥� and聽 鈥済raphic novel鈥� in his 1964 column which appeared as a feature in The Comics Journal (鈥淩ichard Kyle in Retrospect,鈥� Dan Nadel, September 7, 2017). From that point on, graphic novels, in particular, referred to longer-form, more complex comic book narratives that go beyond superheroes to tackle more complex genres and themes.

Graphic novels also have a clear beginning, middle and end, whereas comic books are generally extracted from a larger story. The graphic novel form covers fantasy, fiction, non-fiction, history, fantasy and even current affairs in an accessible way.

Both adults and younger people consume graphic novels. According to Aisling O鈥橫ahony The Publishing Post), 鈥�With the power to make literature increasingly accessible and engaging, graphic novels have cemented their reputation as a serious literary artform.鈥� In 2022, graphic novels accounted for the third-highest-selling fiction genre, with 35 million copies sold in that year alone.

Graphic Novels Have No Standard Size or Paper

While comic books lean heavily toward a standard size and paper grade, graphic novels do not. They can be whatever you choose, though more common trim sizes are 6.5 in x 8.5 in, 5.5 in x 8.25 in, 5.75 in x 8.25 in, 6 x 8.5 in and the standard comic book size of 6.625 in x 10.25 in.

You can choose softcovers or hardcovers, though most graphic novels are softcover, perfect bound. Printing runs the gamut from one to four-color process. But if you鈥檙e looking for norms, most graphic novels use an 80 lb. gloss cover that will likely be aqueous or UV coated.

Yet there are many reasons that you might choose papers outside the norm. These include:

• Intended use and desired durability
• Page count
• The aesthetic appeal you鈥檙e trying to achieve
• Shipping weight considerations
• Budget

Whether you鈥檙e printing a traditional comic book or a graphic novel, request paper samples. You can also obtain paper samples with ink drawdowns to see how the paper and ink will interact.

Getting into the Weeds of Paper Selection

There are many nuances to paper selection. Here is more in-depth information for comic book and graphic novel publishers who wish to take a deeper dive into the world of printing papers.

Understanding Pounds Vs. Grams in Paper Weights

One small complication in specifying printing paper today is the introduction of foreign-manufactured stocks that use the metric system to determine basis weight. In this system, it is the weight of one square meter of paper expressed as grams per square meter or gsm. Basis 60 in the North American system means that 500 sheets of 25鈥� x 38鈥� 60 lb. book paper weighs 60 pounds. The metric equivalent of the same paper is 89 gsm.

Here is a simple conversion chart for coated cover and book weights. You鈥檙e unlikely to use cover weights in standard comic books, but graphic novels are another matter.

Coated Cover聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 聽 Coated Book (Text)

Uncoated Papers

There is one other complication with uncoated paper when you move from one grade to another 鈥� like bond to offset. The tricky part is that the standard size can change from grade to grade as well as with cover stocks.

Other Factors Influencing Your Comic Book or Graphic Novel Paper Choice

Brightness

The paper鈥檚 ability to reflect a volume of light, the measurable reflection or brilliance of the paper. Premium coated papers have a TAPPI (North American Standard) brightness level above 88 and No. 1 papers have brightness levels from 85-87.9. No. 5 stocks have a brightness of 72.9 and below. Higher brightness is generally preferred among designers today. So, a coated paper with a brightness of 98 is an extremely bright sheet that illuminates transparent printing inks, giving a cleaner, crisper color and better black contrast. Papers may be sold based on TAPPI, ISO (European standard) or D65 Brightness (based on perceived brightness for paper viewed in north sky daylight) standards.

Whiteness/Shade

The ability of the paper to reflect all colors of light equally across the visual spectrum. Thus, the whiteness measure is more in line with your visual perception, and there is a general consensus that the higher the whiteness rating, which also uses a 0-100 scale, the whiter the paper. Choices among 鈥渨hite鈥� papers range from balanced to red and blue shades. Blue is generally perceived as being brighter and adds intensity to images with cooler colors.

Holdout

The ability of a paper to uniformly hold ink on the surface. Higher holdout means sharper dot reproduction and increased ink gloss.

Opacity

The property of paper that minimizes image show through from the reverse side or from the next sheet. Achieving opacity becomes increasingly challenging with lighter stocks and is one of the reasons groundwood is sometimes added to lightweight grades.

Bulk

The thickness of paper when compared to its weight. A high-bulk paper is thicker but less compact than a low-bulk paper of the same weight and size. Bulk can be a factor in the final thickness of the printed piece and can impact shipping costs or merchandising. You may get fewer books in a carton or a display rack even though the papers are the same weight.

Smoothness

The even and consistent continuity of the surface is achieved mainly through the calendering process. Calendering, however, comes with a tradeoff, as the process tends to flatten the paper, making it less stiff and opaque. Manufacturers compensate for calendering in their base formulations.

Digitally Optimized

Because toner-based and inkjet printing systems are different from offset lithography, they often require papers that are digitally optimized. The cost for these papers is continually coming down while selection is increasing. Despite the advancements, digital print production still requires matching the paper to the press and considering issues such as static, paper grain direction, ink coverage and image quality requirements. Your print provider will know approved stocks for its digital printing systems. If you want to try other papers, be sure to test a small quantity first.

Finish

Choosing the right finish is critical to achieving the desired result. Uncoated offers a wide range of finishes as well as colors. Coated paper finishes, from least to highest gloss, include matte, dull/silk, gloss and cast coated. Uncoated paper finishes include laid, smooth/wove, vellum/parchment, felt and eggshell.

How 澳门六合彩论坛 Can Help With Paper Selection

澳门六合彩论坛 has years of experience printing and distributing comic books and graphic novels. Our clients include some of the industry鈥檚 most recognizable names, from Dungeons & Dragons and Minecraft to art books for Larry Elmore, the noted fantasy illustrator whose work appears in Dungeons & Dragons, Dragonlance and his own comic strip series, SnarfQuest.

When it comes to paper, we offer a complete paper procurement program. Our high volume allows us to purchase in large quantities at very competitive prices. We also offer ancillary services such as providing swatches, dummies and ink draw-downs. Our representatives welcome opportunities to work with your design team.

And if you share our goal for sustainable print, our team will collaborate with yours to address the entire print production and distribution supply chain. Our integrated approach helps comic book and graphic novel publishers consider how their materials will be printed, distributed, used and recovered, as well as the impact of the paper selection and other actual raw materials used in production.

Getting in touch is simple. Just submit your information and a friendly 澳门六合彩论坛 associate will be in touch within 24 hours.

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Read the full announcement below.

A recommendation by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy not to raise prices in January 2025 for Market Dominant products, which includes First-Class Mail, was accepted by the Governors of the United States Postal Service. Accordingly, the price of a stamp to mail a 1-once single-piece First-Class letter will not increase.

The Postal Service鈥檚 operational strategies are designed to boost service reliability, cost efficiency, and overall productivity.

鈥淥ur strategies are working, and projected inflation is declining,鈥� said Postmaster General DeJoy. 鈥淭herefore, we will wait until at least July before proposing any increases for market dominant services.鈥�

The Postal Service remains committed to continued cost saving measures and to keeping its products and services affordable. Only a handful of countries have a lower price for a domestic single-piece letter.

Lastly, the Postal Service continues to deliver on the tenets of the 10-year plan, while executing our public service mission 鈥� to provide a nationwide, integrated network for the delivery of mail and packages at least six days a week 鈥� in a cost-effective and financially sustainable manner over the long term, just as the U.S. Congress intended and the law requires.

The post DeJoy Has Spoken: No Postal Rate Increases in January appeared first on 澳门六合彩论坛.

Expert Project Management: Your Dedicated Partner

From the initial quote to the final delivery, your project will be managed by your Customer Service Representative and Sales Representative. The two will work together to keep you updated on progress, addressing any concerns and ensuring your project stays on track. Using their expertise and attention to detail, our highly trained employees play a vital role in helping meet deadlines.

Cross-Departmental Communication: A Seamless Workflow

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful project. At 澳门六合彩论坛, we foster an environment of open and transparent communication across all departments. Our Customer Service Representatives work closely with our pre-press, production and mailing teams to ensure everyone is aligned and informed throughout the printing process. This streamlined workflow eliminates bottlenecks and minimizes the risk of delays.

For example, 澳门六合彩论坛 recently implemented a job shadowing initiative at our Saint Joseph, Michigan, printing facility. When 澳门六合彩论坛 employee and Pressman Charles Peoples shadowed with Shawn Dockham on the Kolbus Perfect Binder, he found a way to help the bindery team avoid an extra step in their process.

鈥淲hen loading the books onto the stack it is important to flip them a certain way so the bindery team can avoid an unnecessary step flipping them,鈥� said Peoples.聽 Per Dockham, the Kolbus Collator Operator, 鈥淲hen we鈥檙e running 200 books a minute, every second counts.鈥�

By shadowing other departments and regularly communicating with each other, our employees find new ways to improve efficiency and consistently meet deadlines.

State-of-the-Art Printing Technology: Precision and Efficiency

Investing in cutting-edge printing technology is essential for delivering high-quality products on time. 澳门六合彩论坛鈥檚 five printing facilities are equipment with state-of-the-art printing technology that is capable of producing a wide range of print materials with exceptional precision and speed, while also cutting back on emissions. Our advanced technology allows us to handle large print runs while maintaining strict quality and color standards.

Experienced Staff: A Commitment to Excellence

Our team at 澳门六合彩论坛 is comprised of experienced professionals who are passionate about printing. From our customer support staff and prepress specialists to our press operators and shipping coordinators, everyone is dedicated to delivering exceptional results. Their expertise and commitment to excellence help ensure that your projects are completed and delivered on time and to your exact specifications.

How 澳门六合彩论坛 Can Help You Meet Your Deadlines

If you’re looking for a printing partner that can help you meet your deadlines and deliver high-quality products, 澳门六合彩论坛 is the right choice. Here’s how we can help:

• Personalized Service: Benefit from the expertise of our dedicated Sales and Customer Service Representatives.
• Fast Turnaround Times: Using efficient print production methods, our team works hard to ensure your project makes it out the door on your schedule.
• High-Quality Printing: Enjoy exceptional print quality and attention to detail from our highly trained printing staff.
• Mailing Expertise: Rely on our mailing experts to find the best way to get your product delivered on time and within budget.

Get in Touch With 澳门六合彩论坛 Today

By choosing 澳门六合彩论坛 as your printing partner, you can rest assured that your projects will be completed on time, to the highest standards of quality, and with exceptional customer service throughout the entire process. We are committed to helping you achieve your publishing goals and exceed your expectations.

To learn more about how 澳门六合彩论坛 can help you meet your printing deadlines, please contact us today. We look forward to partnering with you on your next project.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google鈥檚 PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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But how did comic books come to be? Who created the first comic book, igniting a cultural phenomenon that persists to this day? This article will dive into the history of American comic books, from their lighthearted beginnings to the more serious graphic novels we know today.

Early Beginnings: The Birth of American Comics

The history of American comic books was predated by the emergence of newspaper comic strips in the 19th century. These daily serialized cartoons, often featuring humorous or adventurous characters, captivated readers of all ages. Early examples of these comic strips include 聽 However, it wasn’t until the 1930s that comic books as we know them today started to take shape.

Launched in 1934, Famous Funnies, published by Eastern Color, is widely considered the first American comic book. This anthology-style publication featured a collection of reprints from popular newspaper strips, as well as original comic book stories. Famous Funnies proved to be a commercial success, paving the way for the rise of dedicated comic book publishers.

The Golden Age of Comics: Superheroes Take Flight!

The 1940s marked the beginning of the Golden Age of Comics, a period characterized by the rise of superhero comics. These stories, featuring costumed heroes with extraordinary powers, captured the imagination of all ages.

Founded in 1937, Detective Comics, which ultimately became known as DC Comics, introduced one of the most iconic superheroes of all time: Batman. Bruce Wayne, a crime-fighting vigilante with no superpowers, resonated with readers who appreciated his intelligence, detective skills and strict moral code.

In 1938, Action Comics (also published by Detective Comics) debuted Superman, the first superhero to possess superhuman abilities. Superman’s popularity soared, and he quickly became a cultural phenomenon. His adventures inspired the creation of many other superheroes, such as Captain Marvel, Wonder Woman and the Green Lantern.

Marvel Comics, originally known as Timely Comics, entered the superhero scene in the 1940s with characters like Captain America and the Human Torch. While Marvel’s early superheroes were successful, they did not achieve the same level of fame as their DC Comics counterparts at the time.

Introducing Archie Andrews

While superhero comics dominated the landscape in the Golden Age, another genre flourished: teen humor comics. Pep Comics, published by M.L.J. Magazines, introduced Archie Andrews in 1941 as a way to appeal to teen readers. Featuring the adventures of Archie, his friends and their romantic entanglements, these comics offered a light-hearted and relatable escape from the world. Archie immediately caught on with young readers, and in 1942 M.L.J. began publishing Archie Comics as a standalone comic book. By 1946, the characters had become so popular that M.L.J. Magazines changed its name to Archie Comic Publications, Inc.

Archie comics have continued to evolve over the years, adapting to changing cultural trends while maintaining their core appeal. The comic series even received a TV adaptation in 2017 with Riverdale; set in a dramatized version of Archie鈥檚 hometown.

The Silver Age of Comics: A New Wave of Heroes

The Silver Age of Comics, which lasted from the late 1950s to the early 1970s, witnessed a resurgence of superhero comics. Publishers like DC and Marvel introduced a wave of new characters and revamped their existing ones.

DC Comics launched the Justice League of America, a team of superheroes from different parts of the world. The Justice League, which included Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and other popular characters, became a symbol of unity and hope.

Marvel Comics also made significant strides during the Silver Age. Under the creative direction of Jack Kirby and Stan Lee, the company introduced the Fantastic Four, a family of superheroes with diverse powers. The X-Men, a group of mutant outcasts led by Professor X, explored themes of prejudice, discrimination and social injustice.

The Bronze Age of Comics: A Focus on Realism

The Bronze Age of Comics, which lasted from the mid-1970s to the early 1980s, was marked by a shift towards a more realistic and mature storytelling style. Comic books began to address complex social issues, such as drugs, poverty and political corruption.

Marvel Comics led the way in this trend with characters like Spider-Man, who faced personal struggles and moral dilemmas. DC Comics also explored darker themes, such as the death of Superman and the moral ambiguity of Batman.

Some of the major comic book superheroes introduced during this time include The Green Arrow, Ghost Rider and Conan the Barbarian.

The Modern Age of Comics: Diverse Subjects and Themes

The Modern Age of Comics, which began in the 1980s and continues to this day, has been characterized by a diversity of genres, styles and themes. Comic books have become more sophisticated and mature, appealing to a wider range of readers.

The 1980s saw the publication of groundbreaking works like Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns and Daredevil: Born Again. These comics challenged traditional superhero tropes and explored darker, more complex narratives.

The Rise of Graphic Novels

In the late 20th century, graphic novels rose to popularity as a more in-depth alternative to comic books. Graphic novels are styled similarly to comic books, but are generally much longer and feature a single, self-contained story, as opposed to a plot that鈥檚 spread out over many issues. One of the most successful graphic novels of the 20th century is Alan Moore鈥檚 Watchmen, published by DC Comics. Watchmen explores a darker, alternate universe where costumed superheroes have been outlawed by the U.S. government. Its plot is heavily influenced by the Cold War and American politics at the time of its writing.

The 21st century has witnessed the rise of graphic novels that explore mature themes and complex narratives. Graphic novels like Art Spiegelman’s Maus and Alison Bechdel’s Fun Home have been praised for their literary and artistic achievements.

Superheroes on the Silver Screen

Throughout the 20th century, movies featuring comic book superheroes began to crop up in theaters across the country. Some of the more popular installments included Christopher Reeve鈥檚 portrayal of Superman and Michael Keaton鈥檚 Batman. In the early 2000s, superhero films entered an era of resurgence, with both Marvel and DC characters getting feature films. Marvel films in particular continued to snowball in popularity, especially with the release of The Avengers in 2012. The Avengers鈥� storyline culminated in 2019 with Avengers: Endgame, the highest-grossing superhero film of all time.

The Future of American Comic Books

American comic books have come a long way since their humble beginnings in the 19th century. From the early days of newspaper strips to the Golden Age of superheroes, comic books have evolved into a diverse and dynamic art form.

As technology continues to advance, the future of American comic books looks bright. Digital comics, graphic novels and other forms of storytelling offer exciting new possibilities for creators and readers alike. And, thanks to evolving printing equipment, producing comic books is more efficient than ever, with precise and eye-catching results.

Print High-Quality Comic Books With 澳门六合彩论坛

If you want to make comic book history, 澳门六合彩论坛 can help. We offer a wide variety of comic book and graphic novel printing options to help you tell your story. Plus, our dedication to customer service means we鈥檙e by your side every step of the journey. Contact us today to learn more, and let鈥檚 get started.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google鈥檚 PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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Here are some practical tips for if you鈥檙e looking to elevate your local magazine without breaking the bank:

High-Quality Paper Selection

One of the most effective ways to elevate your magazine’s appearance is to choose a higher-quality paper. Consider a heavier paper weight to give your magazine a more substantial feel, or opt for a glossy coating for a luxurious finish.

While it might cost slightly more than standard paper, the investment in premium paper can significantly improve the overall look and feel of your publication. And, in many cases, slightly reducing the overall page count of your magazine can offset the increased cost of higher-quality paper.

Thoughtful Design and Layout

Don鈥檛 underestimate the importance of design for making your city/regional magazine feel more premium. Thoughtful design enhances good copy and photography, making them stand out even more. Keep in mind the overall vibe of your publication, and work to develop a design strategy that supports it. Here are a few general design tips:

• Avoid overwhelming your readers with too much information on each page.
• Use high-quality fonts that complement your magazine’s style.
• Pay attention to white space 鈥� adequate spacing can make your content appear more exclusive and less crowded.

Cover and Binding Options

The cover of your magazine is often the first thing readers see, so it’s important to make a lasting impression. Using a heavier paper for your cover may make your magazine feel sturdier at first touch, but opting for self-cover can be a good way to decrease costs. Consider experimenting with different finishes like embossing, foil stamping or die-cutting to add a touch of luxury, but keep in mind that the cost of specialty finishes can quickly add up, especially when printing a large run.

As far as binding goes, perfect bound generally looks and feels higher quality than saddle stitching, but at a higher cost. Opting for perfect binding can be a good way to make your magazine feel a little nicer, as long as it鈥檚 within the budget. You鈥檒l need to decide whether perfect binding is worth the increased costs, or if you鈥檇 rather use that money to luxuriate your magazine in other ways.

High-Quality Photography

High-quality photography can significantly elevate the overall look of your magazine. Take the time to ensure each issue鈥檚 photography is stellar, especially when photographing locations and people in the community. Publishing a local magazine is all about painting your community in a positive light, and photography is one of the best ways to display its beauty and culture.

Printing Techniques

There are several printing techniques and additional options that can add a touch of luxury to your magazine without significantly increasing costs. Spot UV can add a glossy finish to specific elements of your design, helping them stand out. Additionally, variable data printing allows you to personalize each copy of your magazine, making it feel more exclusive to your readers.

Partnerships and Collaborations

Collaborating with local businesses and featuring local artists can add a unique and personal touch to your magazine. Offer exclusive deals or discounts to your readers through partnerships with local businesses, and showcase the work of local artists to highlight the talent in your community. Adding this type of unique aspect to your magazine can help it stand out.

High-Quality Advertisements

A great way to give your magazine a premium feel is to prominently feature premium advertisements. Opting for well-designed advertisements in your print magazine, especially if they are advertising well-known or higher-end local businesses, can go a long way in creating a more luxurious image. The best part? Gearing your magazine toward high-end advertisers may increase the perceived value of an ad in your publication, resulting in increased advertising revenue.

Elevate Your Magazine Without Breaking the Bank

By implementing some or all of these strategies, you can elevate your city or regional magazine without breaking the bank. For even more expert guidance and personalized solutions, contact the experts at 澳门六合彩论坛. Our talented Sales Representatives can help you achieve your desired level of quality and luxury while staying within your budget.

* This article was developed with assistance from Google鈥檚 PaLM 2 large language AI model.

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